Alaska State Parks Volunteer Program and Volunteer Internship Positions
Backcountry Ranger and Park Assistant
Note: Please be sure to check the general information page for instructions on how to apply! Click here to return to the list of position types.
BACKCOUNTRY RANGER AND PARK ASSISTANT (2-3 positions)
Park/Area: SHUYAK ISLAND STATE PARK
This remote wilderness park is approximately 54 air miles north of Kodiak and only accessible by boat or plane. The park island is approximately 11 miles in diameter and is comprised of 49,000 acres of coastal rain forest and numerous protected bays and inlets. Favorite recreation activities include sea kayaking, boating, wildlife viewing, fishing, and hunting. The park is home to Kodiak brown bear, Sitka black-tailed deer, many bird species, and a great diversity of marine mammals and fish. Park facilities include four Public-Use Cabins available for rent to visitors and the Big Bay Contact Station/Visitor Center. Shuyak Island is subject to the wet, windy, and unpredictable weather of the Gulf of Alaska and Shelikof Strait. Rainfall averages approximately 70 inches per year.
Main Tasks: Monitor and document patterns of park use and make visitor contacts. Maintain and improve more than 15 miles of trail and kayak portages, using sustainable trail building methods. Maintenance, upkeep and cleaning of 4 Public-Use Cabins including cutting and hauling firewood. Maintain contact station/visitor center facilities, grounds, and solar and wind generated utility systems. Light construction, sanding, scraping and staining required on facilities. Assist with park logistics and supplies, and occasionally assist park ranger with park patrol. Position supervision is usually by the area Natural Resource Technician or Park Ranger.
Required Skills: Backcountry hiking, camping, and basic survival skills, physically able to lift and carry up to 50lb. loads over uneven terrain. Must have a good temperament and be able to get along with others in isolated living quarters. Must be able to go without internet or cellphone coverage (satellite messenger provided to communicate with friends/family). Must be willing to travel in small engine float planes, ocean-going boats, and kayaks. Must be prepared to encounter Kodiak bears in their natural habitat on a regular basis (safety training and deterrents provided).
Desired Skills:Any experience with: working/camping in bear country, sustainable trail construction, carpentry, chainsaws, sea kayaking, and ocean boating is a plus.
Internship:State Park staff will assist volunteer in internship requirements and paperwork for school credit.
Allowance/Housing: Housing will be at the Big Bay Ranger Station, occasionally staying overnight in backcountry cabins or tents with no running water or electricity. All travel to and from Shuyak and Kodiak, food, safety equipment, and some training will be provided. Candidates season starts and ends in Kodiak, travel to and from Kodiak is at own expense at beginning and end of season.
Time Commitment: At least June – August, possibly as long as May 20 - September 30.
Note: Include a resume and supporting documentation with application.
Send Application to: Kodiak Area Office
Alaska State Parks - Kodiak |
phone: (907) 486-6339 |
